Dallas Stars February 2024 Teacher of the Month
Tell us about yourself!
My name is Jessica Faulkner and this is my 3rd year of teaching math and science. I choose to become a teacher due to the many wonderful influences that I had growing up in the Dallas Fort Worth area. I want to make a difference in my students lives just like the many teachers I had did for me. One of the things I love most about teaching is being able to see the “AH HA!” moments my students encounter when they finally understand a concept we are covering in class. I love developing strong relationships with my students. I want them to know that I am someone who is always going to be on their team no matter what. I have been involved in the DFW hockey community since the 2000’s. I grew up playing youth travel hockey and have had the opportunity to coach local youth hockey teams in DFW.
What is your favorite part of the Future Goals™program? How do you see STEM in the game of hockey?
I enjoy the Future Goals program because it helps students see math and science within sport. There is STEM everywhere in the game of hockey. From developing the ice, creating equipment for the players, tracking stats of players. As a teacher, I have had multiple opportunities to embed the game of hockey into STEM lessons.
Who is your favorite NHL player?
My favorite player is Joe Pavelski. He is a strong leader on and off the ice. I really enjoy how he took Wyatt Johnston under his wing while he was a rookie. He took on a teaching role and was able to show Wyatt not only how to train like a professional but what it takes to be a good person.
If you played hockey what position would you play?
I have played both forward and defense. I enjoy playing forward because I like fighting for the puck in front of the net to score goals. Defense is also fun to play because You get to set up plays and help protect your goalie.